Fried Chicken With Hot Cranberry Sauce
Crispy fried chicken paired with a tangy hot cranberry sauce, offering a comforting dish perfect for gatherings and those who love savory with a fruity twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up the broilers into serving pieces.
- Season the chicken pieces with 2 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, then sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of sifted flour.
- Sift the remaining flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder into a bowl.
- Beat in the egg and water until smooth.
- Dip each chicken piece into the batter, coating thoroughly.
- Heat fat for deep frying to 370°F and fry chicken pieces a few at a time until golden brown.
- Drain the fried chicken and place in a baking dish.
- Cover and bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes, removing the cover during the last 10 minutes.
- Combine canned whole cranberries and applesauce in a saucepan and heat until warmed through.
- Serve the fried chicken with the hot cranberry sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a crispy coating, ensure the oil is at the right temperature (370°F) before frying. If you want a slightly spicier flavor, consider adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. For a lighter option, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a gluten-free flour blend. Check out similar American recipes for more inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried chicken hot, drizzled with the warm cranberry sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors. This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh Light Luscious Lime Salad. For a complete meal, consider adding a serving of Holiday Baked Corn to round out the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Chicken With Hot Cranberry Sauce contains roughly 1256 calories, with 9g protein, 310g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2303mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's essential to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even frying. Thaw in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for canned cranberries?
If you don't have canned cranberries, you can use homemade cranberry sauce or even fresh cranberries simmered with sugar and water until they burst. This will give you a similar tart flavor that complements the fried chicken beautifully.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this fried chicken healthier, consider baking it instead of frying. Use an air fryer for a crispy texture with less oil. You can also opt for skinless chicken pieces to reduce fat and calories. Additionally, serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a nutritious balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).